Ian Baker-Finch, the 1991 Open champion, is returning to Royal Birkdale. His mission: to pitch the world’s best golfers—including world No. 1 Scottie Scheffler—on playing in Australia and New Zealand. The 2026 Open Championship marks 35 years since his dramatic victory. This is no mere nostalgia tour.
Baker-Finch’s invitation to Scheffler is direct. It is inspired by New Zealand’s Ryan Fox, who has been plotting to lure the American star down under. Fox’s plan involves exhibition matches and leveraging the region’s unique appeal. Baker-Finch, now a commentator and ambassador, is the messenger.
The logistics are complex. “It might hinder the tournament,” warned Australian star Cameron Smith, referring to literal shark threats near sandbelt courses. Smith urged Australian Open organisers to prioritise courses like Kingston Heath and Royal Melbourne. Overcoming these barriers is critical.
Baker-Finch’s pitch extends beyond Scheffler. The 2026 Open at Royal Birkdale is a platform. It allows him to advocate for the Pacific region’s golfing credentials. “We want the best here,” he said in a recent interview. “Royal Birkdale is special. Australia and New Zealand can be, too.”
The 1991 victory at Royal Birkdale was a career-defining moment for Baker-Finch. His return as an ambassador for the 2026 Championship bridges two eras. He understands the emotional weight of the course. He also knows the commercial imperative of attracting top talent.
Smith’s shark alarm is not just about marine life. It symbolises the broader obstacles: travel distances, prize money gaps, and scheduling conflicts. Baker-Finch and Fox are betting that Scheffler’s presence would override those concerns. One exhibition match could change the narrative.
Sandbelt courses are the drawcard. Royal Melbourne and Kingston Heath offer world-class layouts. They rival Birkdale in prestige. But the 2026 Open—hosted at Royal Birkdale—is the ultimate lure. Baker-Finch’s presence adds personal legitimacy to the pitch.
Fox is pragmatic. He knows Scheffler’s time is scarce. “You have to make it worth his while,” Fox told reporters. Baker-Finch’s involvement adds gravitas. The former champion commands respect in locker rooms and boardrooms alike.
The 2026 Open will be a reunion. It will also be a test. Can Baker-Finch convert nostalgia into action? The answer lies in Scheffler’s schedule—and the willingness of tournament organisers to address Smith’s concerns.
| Factor | Baker-Finch Pitch | Ryan Fox Plan | Smith Warning |
|---|---|---|---|
| Target | Scottie Scheffler | Scottie Scheffler | Australian Open organisers |
| Method | Direct invitation at Royal Birkdale | Exhibition matches in NZ | Prioritise sandbelt courses |
| Obstacle | Travel, schedule | Logistics, prize money | Shark threat, course quality |
| Outcome Goal | Boost Pacific golf profile | Lure No. 1 to NZ | Attract world’s best |
The convergence is strategic. Baker-Finch’s return to Royal Birkdale is a calculated move. It is designed to elevate Australian and New Zealand golf. Scottie Scheffler is the ultimate prize. The 2026 Open is the deadline.
💡 Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
- Q: Why is Ian Baker-Finch returning to Royal Birkdale for the 2026 Open?
- A: Baker-Finch, the 1991 Open champion, is returning as an ambassador to pitch top golfers like Scottie Scheffler on playing in Australia and New Zealand, leveraging the 35th anniversary of his victory.
- Q: What challenges face Baker-Finch’s pitch to attract golfers to Australia?
- A: Key challenges include literal shark threats near sandbelt courses, as warned by Cameron Smith, and logistical issues like prioritizing courses such as Kingston Heath and Royal Melbourne over others.
- Q: How does Ryan Fox factor into the plan to lure Scottie Scheffler?
- A: New Zealand’s Ryan Fox has been plotting exhibition matches and using the region’s unique appeal to attract Scheffler, with Baker-Finch acting as the messenger to deliver the direct invitation.
- Q: What is the significance of the 2026 Open for Baker-Finch’s mission?
- A: The 2026 Open at Royal Birkdale provides a platform for Baker-Finch to advocate for Pacific golf’s credentials, bridging his emotional victory with the commercial need to attract top talent to Australia and New Zealand.
Extended Reading
Reports from Stuff detail Fox’s blueprint. Code Sports covers Smith’s shark alarm. Australian Golf Digest confirms Baker-Finch’s role.